Is it necessary to get screened for cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer is preventable, but it's essential to get screened between 21 and 65. OBGYN Evelyn Minaya, MD, explains how often to get a pap test and a physical examination.

Transcript

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It's easier for women under the age of 30 to get rid of the HPV virus and for women over the age of 30

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not to get rid of it as quickly. [MUSIC PLAYING]

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You have to get screened for cervical cancer between the ages of 21 and 65. You can have a pap alone every three years.

00:23

Your annual examination comprises of a physical examination and a pap smear. What I do encourage my patients is you come

00:29

to the gynecologist every year. We have a record of you. We'll tell you if you need your pap that particular year.

00:36

It's easier for women under the age of 30 to get rid of the HPV virus.

00:46

It becomes a lot harder for your immune system to work as efficiently. Cervical screening is always, always necessary,

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even if you've never had an abnormal pap. Remember, under the age of 30 you can actually get rid of HPV.

01:09

Over the age of 30, sometimes you cannot get rid of HPV on your own. So that means that it can stay in your body for a long time.

01:17

And it can rear its ugly head later on. And it's all about preventive medicine. Remember, cervical cancer can be totally prevented.